Fawning

Description

Fawning is a way of building the other person's sense of
identity by placing
yourself in a lower social position. This helps them to feel superior and
unthreatened (and where they may make magnanimous gestures).

To fawn effectively, treat them as if they are better than they are without
over-doing it. It is often best used as a part of a longer-term subtle strategy
of making them feel good about themselves, and particularly when you are around.

Example

Oh you're so wonderful. I just love everything you do.

I know I won one race but I have a long way to go to match your
record.

Discussion

Fawning can seem to be excessive and obsequious, and lowering one's own
social position can be undesirable. It can also be subtle, for example where you
are modest about your achievements, downplaying them in comparison with what the
other person has achieved.

The danger in fawning is that the other person sees you as so inferior that
you are not worth their attention. Fawning gone wrong can be seen by the other
person treating you with disrespect and disdain.

To keep fawning successful, first assess the person to determine if they like
feeling superior and are likely to play along with the illusion.